Introduction

Home Networking

Here at FiringSquad we're always looking for new networking technologies that might make setting up LANs easier for the home user. We love LAN multiplayer gaming, and we want our readers to experience LAN gaming too. There's nothing like railing someone (Brandon) out of midair and then yelling out a choice taunt phase ("Put that rocket down before you hurt yourself"). Online gaming is fun, but nothing compares to playing against friends over LAN.

We've done our fair share of networking guides, and judging by the number of messages we've received over the past year, we've helped plenty of people set up traditional 10Base2, 10BaseT, and 100BaseTX networks.

Sometimes people can't or don't want to deal with RJ45 or coaxial cable wiring, and that's why we've put more emphasis on non-traditional home networks these past few months. We've already reviewed wireless and phoneline networking kits, and now we're giving readers a look at powerline networking.

Formerly known as Intelogis

In 1995 Novell's Embedded Systems Technology (NEST) division began developing powerline networking technology. In 1997, Novell spun off the NEST division to a private investor group and Intelogis was formed. Intelogis is best known for its PassPort powerline networking kit, but right before this year's CES the company announced a shift in business focus.

Instead of developing end user products, the company has chosen to focus on developing powerline technology for the OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturers) market. Basically, this means that they'll have a business model similar to Nvidia's -they'll sell the chips and let someone else manufacturer the product. Intelogis has changed its name to Inari to signify this change in focus.

While new technologies will be developed for OEM consumption, Inari will continue to manufacture and distribute its PassPort Plug-In Network product. The PassPort Plug-In Network connects your computers and printers together through your household AC wiring. When they say powerline networking, they really mean powerline networking! We managed to get our hands on an evaluation unit. Read on to find out about how the PassPort Networking kit performed in our tests!